6th Annual Men’s & Families’ Health & Resource Fair
On Thursday, September 9th, New Life Covenant Southeast at 7621 S. Greenwood Avenue in Chicago hosted the 6th Annual Men’s & Families’ Health & Resource Fair — a free, community-driven event co-hosted by Cook County Health, Insight Hospital, and Onyx Health Collective. The theme said it all: Healthier Men. Stronger Families. Better Communities.
A Mission Born From Personal Experience
The driving force behind the event is Commissioner Bill Lowry — a prostate cancer survivor who launched this initiative six years ago after his own diagnosis changed his life.
“During a routine physical, I discovered I had an elevated PSA — a prostate specific antigen test — which led me to learn that I had prostate cancer, and ultimately to the removal of my prostate. Thankfully, because of early detection, it had not spread. I am here today to share that information.”
In May 2023, Commissioner Lowry faced a second diagnosis — a kidney mass, also caught early and removed in September 2023 with no spread. That experience deepened his resolve.
“Even with good insurance, I had to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket. I said, I have got to come up with a way for others to be able to engage in this kind of care.”
The result: a program offering free screenings through hospitals and participating Cook County clinics for those without insurance. No man, he insists, should die from prostate cancer.
Resources, Panels, and Community Connection
The event offered free health screenings, giveaways, raffles, and an Ask the Doctor Panel in Purpose Room Two, where healthcare experts answered community questions. Speakers and panelists included Pastor John Hannah of New Life Covenant Church, Alderman Michelle Harris of the 8th Ward, Dr. Watson, and other distinguished community leaders.
Jenita Keaton, Director of the Fidel Clinic at 1625 E. 75th Street, spoke about the importance of connecting men to continuous, accessible care. The Fidel Clinic offers a wide range of services including ophthalmology, family practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, podiatry, ENT, and infectious disease.
“Today’s event is about purpose — about connecting our men in this community to the continuity of care and all the resources they need,” Keaton said.
Healthcare Belongs to All
Commissioner Lowry closed with a declaration that framed the entire evening.
He thanked Jasmine McCalpin and his entire staff for bringing the event to life — and promised it would not stop in September.
Six years in, the mission is clear and the work continues.
